A COMPARISON BETWEEN THE TWO METHODS OF MAGNESIUM SULFATE ADMINISTRATION FOR DURATION OF 12 VERSUS 24 H AFTER DELIVERY IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE PREECLAMPSIA

Abstract

Objective: Preeclampsia is one of the very serious and important complications of pregnancy which may culminate in serious maternal mortality and morbidity. For preventing eclampsia and convulsions, magnesium sulfate (Mg So4) is the medication of choice. As a standard method, it will be continued up to 24 hours after delivery of the baby. Shortening the duration of its administration can reduce the duration of hospital stay, risk of magnesium sulfate (Mg sulfate) toxicity and adverse effects, cost, duration of treatment, and patient satisfaction. The purpose of the present study was to compare the 2 methods of magnesium sulfate administration for a duration of 12 VS 24 hours after delivery in patients with severe preeclampsia. Design and method: The study was performed as a randomized clinical trial on 182 cases of severe preeclampsia. They were randomly assigned into the 2 groups. In one group, Mg sulfate was prescribed for 12 hours after delivery and in the other group, it was prescribed for 24 hours after delivery. The dosage of Mg sulfate was similar in both groups and only the duration of administration was different. Both groups were compared for the occurrence of convulsions and other adverse effects. Results: The women of the 2 groups did not have significant differences according to age, BMI, Parity, gravidity, or gestational age at the time of delivery. Also, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, antihypertensive use, previous diabetes and renal disorders, gestational diabetes, and proteinuria were similar in both groups before treatment. One woman had a convulsion in the 12 hours group and Mg SO4 was continued for 24 hours in this case. Blood pressure, urine volume, and laboratory indexes did not show significant differences between the 2 groups before and after treatment. Also, adverse effects were similar in both groups. Pain at the injection site was less in the 12-hour group (P=0.048). Conclusions: Administration of Mg sulfate for 12 hours after delivery should be considered somehow as effective as 24 24-hour prescription for preventing convulsion after delivery.